Termination of Data Tape Recorder (DTR) operations (limited by ability to capture 1.4 kbit/s data using a 70 m/34 m antenna array. This is the minimum rate at which the DTS can read-out data.)

New Horizons third stage

late 2015

Crosses Pluto's orbit

Voyager 1

2016 approx

Termination of gyroscopic operations

New Horizons

2016–2020

Possible flyby of one or more Kuiper belt objects (KBOs)

Voyager 2

2020 approx

Initiate instrument power sharing

Voyager 1

2020

Start shutdown of science instruments (as of October 18, 2010 the order is undecided but the Low-Energy Charged Particles, Cosmic Ray Subsystem, Magnetometer, and Plasma Wave Subsystem instruments are expected to still be operating)

Voyager 2

2025 or slightly afterwards

Can no longer power any single instrument

Voyager 1

2025-2030

Can no longer power any single instrument

New Horizons

2026

The Dwarf Planets mission will conclude

New Horizons

2038(12)

New Horizons will be 100 AU from the Sun/If still functioning, the probe will explore the outer heliosphere.